Is Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins Based on a Documentary?
by Jency
Updated Sep 07, 2023
Is Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins Based On A Documentary?
Yes, Taika Waititi's "Next Goal Wins" is indeed based on a documentary of the same name. The original documentary, released in 2014 and directed by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison, served as the source of inspiration for the comedy film. The documentary followed the real-life American Samoa soccer team, which had gained infamy for suffering a devastating 31-0 loss in a FIFA match in 2001.
This extraordinary and somewhat tragic sports story, documented in the original film, forms the foundation upon which Taika Waititi and his team have built a heartfelt underdog comedy that explores the team's journey to redemption, with Michael Fassbender taking on the role of the unconventional coach, Thomas Rongen.
By drawing from real events and characters documented in the original documentary, "Next Goal Wins" aims to capture the essence of the team's struggles and their remarkable quest for transformation, all while infusing Taika Waititi's signature humor and storytelling style into the narrative.. This blend of reality and comedy is expected to make the film a unique and engaging cinematic experience for audiences.
Next Goal Wins
"Next Goal Wins" is an upcoming American biographical sports comedy-drama film directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Taika Waititi. The screenplay is co-written by Iain Morris. The movie draws its inspiration from the 2014 documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. This inspiring story revolves around Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen's remarkable efforts to lead the American Samoa national football team, a team historically considered one of the weakest in the world, towards an improbable dream – qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast led by the versatile Michael Fassbender, who portrays the determined coach Thomas Rongen. Alongside him, the cast includes Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, Will Arnett, and Elisabeth Moss. The journey of this underdog team's transformation, filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable characters, is brought to life against the backdrop of the beautiful landscapes of American Samoa, where filming commenced in November 2019.
Next Goal Wins Storyline
"Next Goal Wins" delves into the incredible and heartwarming journey of Thomas Rongen, a Dutch-American football coach faced with the Herculean task of transforming the American Samoa national football team. Historically known as one of the weakest teams globally, the American Samoa squad harbors dreams of an unlikely qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Rongen's unconventional methods, unwavering determination, and the sheer resilience of his players form the backbone of this captivating narrative.
One of the standout characters in the film is Jaiyah Saelua, a fa'afafine player who etched her name in history by becoming the first transgender player ever to compete in a World Cup game. The film celebrates diversity and inclusion, highlighting the triumphs of individuals like Jaiyah who defy norms and pave the way for change in the world of sports. "Next Goal Wins" promises to be a heartwarming, inspiring, and comedic exploration of the human spirit's boundless capacity for growth and transformation, set against the backdrop of the beautiful and unique culture of American Samoa.
Next Goal Wins Cast
Actor
Character
Michael Fassbender
Thomas Rongen
Oscar Kightley
Tavita
Kaimana
Jaiyah Saelua
David Fane
Ace
Rachel House
Ruth
Beulah Koale
Daru Taumua
Will Arnett
Alex Magnussen
Elisabeth Moss
Gail
Uli Latukefu
Nicky Salapu
Chris Alosio
Jonah
Lehi Makisi Falepapalangi
Pisa
Semu Filipo
Rambo
Ioane Goodhue
Smiley
Rhys Darby
Rhys Marlin
Angus Sampson
Angus Bendleton
Luke Hemsworth
Keith
Kaitlyn Dever
Nicole
Hio Pelesasa
Samson
David Tu'itupou
Tall David
Levy Tuiala
Chief Sila
Loretta Ables Sayre
Rambo's mother
Frankie Adams
Frangipani
Taika Waititi
American-Samoan priest
Next Goal Wins Release date
"Next Goal Wins" is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 17, 2023, by Searchlight Pictures. Directed by Taika Waititi and featuring a star-studded cast led by Michael Fassbender, this highly anticipated sports comedy-drama is set to take audiences on a heartwarming and inspirational journey. The film is based on the true story of the American Samoa national football team's extraordinary transformation under the unconventional coaching of Thomas Rongen as they strive to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
With its release date set for November 2023, "Next Goal Wins" promises to be a feel-good cinematic experience that combines humor, resilience, and the power of the human spirit in the world of sports, making it a must-watch for both sports enthusiasts and fans of compelling storytelling.
Next Goal Wins Overview
Director
Taika Waititi
Screenplay
Taika Waititi, Iain Morris
Producers
Jonathan Cavendish, Garrett Basch, Taika Waititi, Mike Brett, Steve Jamison
Cinematography
Lachlan Milne
Music
Michael Giacchino
Production Companies
Searchlight Pictures, Imaginarium Productions, Defender Films, Garrett Basch Production
Distributor
Searchlight Pictures
Release Dates
September 10, 2023 (TIFF)
November 17, 2023 (United States)
Running Time
103 minutes
Next Goal Wins Trailer
Is Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins Based On A Documentary- FAQs
Yes, the film is based on the 2014 documentary of the same name.
Taika Waititi directed the film.
The film is set to be released on November 17, 2023
Michael Fassbender portrays Thomas Rongen in the film.
The filming commenced in American Samoa.